SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and Education Minister Chan Chun Sing attended the Johor royal family’s Hari Raya open house on March 31, continuing an annual tradition that underscores the deep and enduring ties between Singapore and Johor. Held at Istana Bukit Serene, the ministers were hosted by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, and his wife, Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor, as reported by The Straits Times (ST).
As Mr Chan noted in a Facebook post, “Singapore and Johor share a unique friendship that has withstood the test of time.” He noted that the relationship is not just about economic collaboration but also about a “shared history and deep people-to-people relationship.”
This visit symbolises the strong relationship between the two neighbours, which reflects a bond that extends beyond economic cooperation and includes shared history and close personal connections.
Discussions on major bilateral projects
Beyond the festive celebrations, Singapore and Johor took the opportunity to discuss key bilateral initiatives that will further strengthen their cross-border relationship. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministers and Johor leaders exchanged views on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) and the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, both of which are set to boost trade, investment, and connectivity, ST reported.
In a Facebook post, Dr Balakrishnan expressed optimism about these projects, saying they will “bring new energy to our partnership – strengthening economic collaboration and people-to-people ties”. The JS-SEZ, signed in January 2025, is expected to drive regional development by encouraging businesses to leverage Johor’s resources while maintaining Singapore as a global headquarters. Moreover, the RTS Link, scheduled to be operational in 2026, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion at the border and improve cross-border mobility.
Strengthening ties
These exchanges go beyond government discussions; they also reinforce the strong social and familial connections between Singaporeans and Johoreans. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the resumption of the Hari Raya tradition in 2023 shows how both countries value their diplomatic ties
Johor has always been a gateway between Singapore and Malaysia, with thousands crossing the border daily for work, leisure, and family visits. Events like the Hari Raya open house foster goodwill, which allows leaders to engage in meaningful conversations while celebrating an important festival together.
Public reactions: A moment of unity and warmth
Seeing Singaporean ministers attending Johor’s royal Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, social media was flooded with widespread positivity. Many social media users expressed their appreciation for the warm ties between the two neighbours.
One commenter emphasised the significance of such gestures, saying, “This should be the way friendship is to be all these years. We celebrate the festive together in the spirit of total togetherness.” Others noted the cultural importance of the event, with one remarking, “Nice to see such warm ties. Also great to see leaders are still wearing their own traditional clothes. Hope to see this tradition live forever.”
Malaysian commenters also welcomed the visit, with simple yet heartfelt messages such as “Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri” and “Welcome to Malaysia!”.
A bright future ahead
The annual Hari Raya gathering at Istana Bukit Serene is more than just a tradition; it reflects the strong and lasting friendship between Singapore and Johor. As both sides work on major projects like the JS-SEZ and RTS Link, such meetings help to strengthen cooperation.
With growing economic, social, and cultural ties, Singapore and Johor continue to set an example of good regional relations. This shows that strong diplomacy is built on trust, shared traditions, and mutual respect.
Read also: Singapore-Johor Special Economic Zone: A new era of cross-border growth